Independence, MO (November 1, 2025) – Two people suffered life-threatening injuries on Friday, October 31, after a violent three-vehicle crash in Independence. The crash happened around 5:20 p.m. at the intersection of U.S. 40 Highway and Sterling Avenue.

Witnesses said an eastbound Ford Escape struck a northbound Ford F-250 at the intersection. The force of the impact sent the F-250 into a Toyota Avalon that was stopped nearby, crushing all three vehicles and scattering debris across the roadway.

Emergency crews rushed to the scene and found multiple victims trapped in the wreckage. Paramedics provided immediate medical care and transported three people to nearby hospitals. Two victims remain in critical condition, while another suffered moderate injuries.

Police closed most of the intersection for several hours as investigators collected debris, documented evidence, and interviewed witnesses. The Independence Police Department continues to investigate the crash.

Our hearts are with everyone injured in this tragic crash. We wish them strength and a full recovery.

Car Accidents in Missouri

Car crashes remain one of the leading causes of serious injuries and deaths in Missouri. Intersections like U.S. 40 and Sterling Avenue are especially dangerous where heavy traffic, high speeds, and quick turns can cause chain-reaction collisions in seconds.

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, thousands of intersection crashes occur every year, leaving victims with catastrophic injuries and long recoveries. Many of these accidents happen because of negligence, such as distracted driving, speeding, or ignoring traffic lights.

The aftermath of a serious crash often brings overwhelming challenges. Victims may face surgeries, hospital stays, therapy, and months of rehabilitation. Financial stress quickly builds from medical bills, missed work, and damage to property. Insurance companies sometimes offer low settlements that fail to cover the full cost of recovery.

If you sustained injuries in a car accident in Missouri, you may be entitled to compensation. This may include:

• Medical expenses: You may recover the cost of hospital stays, surgeries, medication, and rehabilitation.
• Lost income: You can receive compensation for the time you were unable to work.
• Pain and suffering: This reflects the lasting physical pain and emotional distress experienced after the accident.
• Property damage: You can seek payment for repairs or replacement of your vehicle or other damaged items.
• Long-term care: This covers ongoing medical treatment, therapy, or assistance needed for lasting conditions.

A skilled car accident lawyer in Independence can investigate the crash, gather crucial evidence, negotiate with insurers, and fight for compensation that truly reflects your losses.

At Wallentine Injury Law, we understand how deeply a car accident can affect your life. Our team stands beside victims and families across Missouri, helping them rebuild after tragedy and secure the justice they deserve.

If you or someone you love was hurt in a car accident, call Wallentine Injury Law at (913) 934-6333 for a free consultation. We are here to help you move forward and find peace after such a difficult time.

Notes: Our writers utilized secondary sources when writing this news article about an accident. We have not independently reviewed all of the circumstances surrounding this accident; therefore, please get in touch with Wallentine Injury Law right away if you locate any incorrect information in our post. We will update the post with the most accurate information currently available.  A post will be removed upon request.

Disclaimer: We hope that by raising awareness about driving hazards, drivers will be more cautious when operating a motor vehicle and avoid being seriously injured in a collision. This accident news post is not a business solicitation. The content of this post is not intended to serve as medical or legal advice. This post’s featured image was not captured at the accident scene depicted in the post.